Mixed cell populations for tissue repair and separation technique for cell processing

Abstract

The present invention provides a fluid exchange cell culture technique and tissue repair cells (TRCs) made by these methods, as well as methods using these cells. The method includes a new wash step which increases the tissue repair properties of the TRCs of the invention. This wash step allows for the production of TRC populations with greater tissue repair and anti -inflammatory capabilities. Embodiments of the present invention include a post-culture process for cultured cells that preferably includes the steps of: a wash process for removing unwanted residual culture components, a volume reduction process, and a harvesting process to remove cultured cells. Preferably, all these steps are performed within a aseptically closed cell culture chamber by implementing a separation method that minimizes mechanical disruption of the cells and is simple to automate. The harvested cells may then be concentrated to a final volume for the intended use. In such embodiments, the final composition is a substantially purified and concentrated cell mixture suspended in a physiologic solution suitable for immediate use in humans without further washing, volume reduction, or processing. Embodiments are also applicable to harvesting (and/or washing) particles within a liquid or solution within a chamber.